How to look and feel great in your swimsuit

When you know what to look for, finding a flattering bathing suit is easy. To help, here are the secrets to looking and feeling great in your swimsuit.

Swimsuits for women are either one-piece or two-piece, but it’s the details that matter when it comes to comfort, fit and fashion. So which style is best for you?

One-piece swimsuits: A one-piece generally covers the midsection, which is a key consideration if you're uncomfortable with showing you tummy.

• A plunge one-piece with spaghetti straps or halter-top can expose plenty of skin and showcase arms and shoulders.
• You can even go strapless with a bandeau-style swimsuit. It fits snugly around the bust line and may have strings that tie behind the neck for support.

Two-piece swimsuits: The iconic two-piece style is the bikini. Bikinis can be daring, such as the string bikini, or somewhat modest, such as a classic bikini.

• The tankini is a two-piece swimsuit that often looks like a one-piece, as the tank top half meets or slightly overlaps the waistline of the bottom half to conceal the midriff.

Sport swimsuits: Active swimmers and athletes often prefer the support of one-piece swimwear built for action. Characteristics include a snug compression-fit, full front, racerback, and a mid-rise or high-cut hip line.

• Two-piece styles feature a bikini bottom or so-called boy short and snug-fitting sport top for extra support.

• Material: Natural fibres and cotton blends are more prevalent in fashion-forward styles. In contrast, sport swimsuits are typically made of quick-drying synthetic blends.
• Lining: Feel the swimsuit lining and make sure it’s going to be comfortable against your skin. It must also provide adequate coverage.
• Construction: Frills, ruffles and ruching are common fashion details. Elasticized straps, drawstrings and common fasteners should be durable enough for swimming or casual activity.
• Support: Many bathing suits for women come with an underwire bra and reinforced shoulder straps for full figures.

Pick a swimsuit style that flatters your best features and draws the eyes away from areas you want to minimize.

• Brazilian bikinis and bandeau tops are good choices for women who are smaller on top.
• A plus-size bathing suit, or swim dress, features a skirted bottom and ruffled hem.
• Belts, waistbands and drawstrings can enhance the hourglass effect and separate top and bottom.
• Look for soft foam cups or shelf bra for a fashion fit in one-piece swimsuits.

Shopping for bathing suits can be an ordeal, but knowing the best style for your body type is the first step to picking a suit that you can wear with confidence.